An educator throughout his professional career, Frank left the Auburn area several years ago, and during the last years of his life, was the Principal at North Tonawanda High School. In Western New York, Frank was held in high esteem by his professional peers. Frank was a great athlete and a great coach. While at Syracuse University, he started as quarterback on the football team.
Frank came on board in the early years. He was invariably the main ingredient in many of our legendary stories, most of which involve humorous happenings before, during, and after past races.
We are greatly indebted to Frank for what we believe was his part in the invention of our committee motto, "iofr" that appears on our shirts. We believe that the invention took place as Frank and Don "Dello" monitored pre-race activities on East Lake Road at the exchange area
Frank was in our prayers during his very positive minded and courageous last battle. He was aided and surrounded by his wonderful wife Sandie and children Kevin (pictured with Frank in the first collage) and Kelly, his mother and dad and family, and countless friends.
On April 23, 1999, Dello, Brad, and Lee paid a wonderful and emotional visit to Frank and his family at their home in Williamsville.
That's Sandie; Frank's mother and dad, Alphonse and Joy; and Pat Komash, Frank's trusted assistant principal in the middle photo; and Kevin and Kelly in the bottom photo.
Sadly, this was the last time they saw him.
In memory of Frank, the Great Race will again offer the Frank D. Ruggiero Memorial Award, an annual $500 college scholarship. The winner is announced at each year's Great Race.
We ask all who see this message to pray for Frank's soul and for the well being of his loving family.
We are more than a committee....."We are family"
Thanks....... the Race Committee